A COMMUNITY group has taken over St Athan Library.

The Vale of Glamorgan Council transferred the running of the library services to St Athan Community Hub and Library (SACHaL) on December, Monday 5.

SACHaL, a local charitable organsation which was founded by St Athan residents, will continue to provide library and information services to library members,

Graham Mallaghan, who is chariman of SACHaL, said: "This day has been long in the making, but our community's library service has now been secured for the future, while we also hope to establish more activities open to all - continually developing our services in cooperation with the people of our village and ward.

"We have many big ideas for the library and we are sure it'll be a success.

"Our programmes will be introduced in the new year."

Previously Dinas Powys, Wenvoe and Sully libraries were transferred to each community, making St Athan Library the fourth community-run library in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Councillor Derek Willmot, of St Athan Community Council, said: "The community council welcomes this new and interesting venture and will work hard with SACHaL to create a vibrant library and community hub for our residents."

Phil Southard, the Vale council's culture and community learning manager, also welcomed the transfer.

He said: "This is a positive move by members of the community, and they should be commended for taking on the running of their library.

"The council will do all it can to support the group - helping them to become sustainable, and to flourish."

For more information on the library, visit http://www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/en/enjoying/libraries/Vale%20Libraries/St%20Athan%20Library.aspx